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Embracing the Humble Beginnings: A Journey of Starting Over and Finding Purpose

Writer's picture: Riani DreyerRiani Dreyer

Life is full of crossroads, moments that compel us to start anew. Whether prompted by personal challenges or the longing for a fresh start, the journey of beginning again can stir both excitement and fear. I’ve traveled this path myself a few times, and from my experience, every small step of faith truly matters. In moments of doubt, I found comfort in reminding myself of God's words of encouragement to a very discouraged Zerubbabel in Zechariah 4:10: Never despise the day of small beginnings. Each small step is a promise of something bigger if we are brave enough to keep moving forward.


The Importance of Acknowledging Small Steps


At the start of my journey toward starting what felt like from scratch all over again, I felt lost and overwhelmed. Days blurred together, and changing my life felt like an insurmountable task. I often overlooked my initial efforts, dismissing them as trivial, which led to so much frustration and self-doubt.


Close-up view of a simple notebook with handwritten notes
A notebook capturing the essence of brainstorming ideas.

Reflecting on this, I learned that even the tiniest actions can lead to significant transformations. For example, I began journaling whatever God was prompting me to dive into with Him, took a short walk each day, and practiced gratitude by listing things I appreciated about the people and things I easily took for granted. Interestingly, a study from the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that people who regularly practice gratitude report 25% more happiness than those who don’t. Small steps, like this, started laying the groundwork for some significant changes in my mindset.


Personal Growth Through Consistent Efforts


One of my biggest revelations was the importance of consistency. There were countless mornings when I struggled to get out of bed, yet I pushed myself to follow a carefully crafted morning routine geared around the vision of the woman I wanted to become. For me, it was prophetic journaling, spending time in God's word, and connecting with the people he laid on my heart; these efforts accumulated over time.


Slowly, I noticed a significant shift in my perspective. I began to realize that my focus should be on the journey rather than immediate results. Days that once felt unproductive transformed into essential building blocks for my progress towards stepping into God's purpose and call on my life.


Eye-level view of a quiet, natural landscape representing peace and solitude
Embracing serenity, she gazes out of her campervan, sipping coffee and reflecting by the sea.

These gradual changes teach us that the milestones we achieve today set us up for future success. Each small victory echoes our aspirations and sets the stage for bigger achievements.


Overcoming Fear of Failure


Fear of failure can often hold us back from taking that critical first step. I remember standing at the brink of what can only be described as a blank-canvas-moment, feeling hesitant and unsure, but in that moment, I remember thinking, "There is no one more dangerous or powerful on this planet than the man or woman who has nothing left to lose." It was the most terrifying yet exhilarating moment in my life.


I realized that welcoming failure as a mentor towards future good success is a crucial part of this journey. Each setback transfiguring into a setup for my next victory. For the realist in you; A study by the American Psychological Association reveals that individuals who embrace failure tend to have a growth mindset, making them more resilient than those who fear it.


As I decided to embrace each day instead of simply navigating my way through it, I learned to appreciate and enjoy the present while also keeping only the next small step in sight. This dual perspective encouraged me to celebrate each small moment of success and reframe the mistakes as retakes towards what I had decided was already a successful ending to a story that is still being written.


Finding Purpose in the Mundane


Often, the most ordinary tasks hold the key to broader purpose. I learned to find joy in daily activities, transforming routine actions into meaningful rituals. Whether watering houseplants, preparing a healthy meal, or taking mindful breaths, these moments enriched my life with the knowing that like what air is to my lungs, these small tasks were to the breath that is my presence in this world and to those I love. It gives them tangible signs that I am still here. These small tasks or tokens of care are like a personalized signature showing them how I love taking care of them and appreciate them in my own very personal and heartfely way. No one makes a sandwich better than a mother or wife completely in love with her children, and the Daddy who enthusiastically participated in making them.


By discovering meaning in small tasks, I built a sense of fulfillment that helped prevent feelings of despair from building and completely consuming me. Each trivial action created a ripple effect, reminding me that life is a rich tapestry of experiences and should be chewed like gum, not swallowed whole like the last Ouma Rooi Koeksister on a hot Sunday afternoon.


High angle view of a garden path surrounded by greenery
Two people work together to nurture a young seedling, symbolizing hope and collaboration towards growth.

Through these small beginnings, I gradually discovered my path to becoming a multipassionate creative cultivator of hope and healing. A path that led me to you, my friend. Each action deepened my connection to my purpose, illuminating the way forward.


The Power of the Presence of God


One of the crucial elements in my journey was the supernatural support I found in the presence of God. Many abandoned me, when I finally decided to embark on this journey of walking out of my divine calling rather than a self-made destiny that was devoid of any true meaning. Connecting with God and much later, like-minded destiny-helpers, which He sent into my life, provided encouragement and insight that I desperately needed. Sharing stories made me realize I wasn’t alone in this anymore and this got me super excited.


Whether it’s friends, family, or community groups, fostering divine connections and allowing God to remove those people that were never meant to go to the next level with you is painful, yes, but also essential for your growth and protection. Encouragement from those who understand your journey and have been appointed by God to partner with you can significantly impact your progress.


The Journey Ahead


Starting over may feel overwhelming, and it’s tempting to despise small steps because, in the moment, they feel so insignificant. But with each deliberate action, we carve pathways toward divine appointments and alignments with our unique calling. I urge you to embrace these small efforts—you might start by creating a vision board, taking a moment to breathe, and celebrating your small victories. Each of these actions is a reflection of your potential and a reminder of your resilience.


Every step counts, no matter how small. Just as a single drop of water can create ripples in a pond, your commitment to small beginnings can lead to substantial changes in your life. So, cherish these moments and watch them evolve into something profound. Let’s dive in together, knowing that every small step leads us closer to discovering our greater purpose.


Your greatest cheerleader,

Riani


PS: If you come across this post before February 8th, 2025, head over to the Events page to join us for the grand opening of RDARA Counselling and Community Care, as well as the launch of my book, The Smiling Puppet: From Captivity to Liberty, which tells my story from overcoming chronic people-pleasing to healing and teaches you exactly how you too can take small steps towards making significant changes in your life.



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